Portimao
Portimao traces its bloodlines back to a little port of the Phoenicians, Greeks and Carthaginians. Some historians have indicated that the place was originally the famous Portus Hannibalis named by the famous Roman general, Hannibal Barca. During the following Moorish occupation they renamed the town "Burj Munt". Situated at the end of the River Arade it allows for a natural made harbour - excitingly at times in the past it has been used a home for smugglers and pirates.
The river also provides the access to the up-river ancient city (and once capital of the Algarve) - Silves.
Back then the place was named Porcimunt but then in 1504 the decision was taken to recognize it as a town. For this reason it was granted the name "Vila Nova de Portim�o" and became part of the possessions of the Castelo Branco family until the 17th Century.
Later it was commonly renamed as Portim�o and during the 19th century was extensively developed in order to become one of the most important centres on the Algarve of the fishing and canning industry. This was until the early 1980s when the recession drove the remaining factories out of business.
The place has over 35,000 inhabitants is basically commercially orientated and was the main shopping town of the whole Algarve between 1970 and 1980. The town's church, the last beautiful building surviving in the town dates back as far as 1476; however it did have a make over in 1717 and some alterations after time. The town council seems to have adopted a policy of destroying architecturally stimulating buildings in favour of modernization. It also has a very active cultural department and there are always different forms of events that take place all through the year.
Believe it or not, The Municipal Museum is situated in an old sardine canning factory. Now a days they hold regular exhibitions are that cover art, history, and general culture - all of a local and national theme.
In addition to this a boat Marina was recently opened adjoining Praia da Rocha and this adds the charming sight of the numerous boats at anchor and an additional choice of pubs and cafes in which to spend the evening.
When coming near the town from the direction of Faro there is a choice of two bridges to cut across. The old one runs along past the harbour but we would urge that you take the new bridge.
This bridge has been so well designed; it is widely considered one of the most eye pleasing bridges of the 19th century in Portugal. On the river front near the square with the caf�s there are a number of different boat tours and deep sea-fishing expeditions which can be booked.